Handbook of Environmental Analysis

Introduction

The Handbook of Environmental Analysis by Pradyot Patnaik is a comprehensive guide to the analytical techniques used in the determination of chemical pollutants in aqueous, solid, and air samples. The book combines the features of both a reference handbook and a textbook, providing practical guidance and in-depth analysis of the subject matter. The following review will provide an overview of the book’s contents and evaluate its usefulness for students and professionals in the field of environmental analysis.

Part I:

Analytical Techniques The book’s first part provides an overview of the analytical techniques used in environmental analysis. The chapters cover topics such as instrumentation, sample preparation, wet methods, air analysis, and immunoassay. The instrumental methods section covers gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography, and spectrophotometric methods. The section on sample preparation discusses techniques such as extraction, digestion, and filtration. The chapters on wet methods cover gravimetric, titrimetric, and electrochemical methods. The air analysis section includes techniques such as sampling, gravimetry, and gas chromatography. The immunoassay chapter provides an overview of the principles and applications of immunoassay methods in environmental analysis.

Part II:

Analytical Methodologies for Organic and Inorganic Pollutants Part II presents analytical methodologies for different classes of organic and inorganic pollutants in aqueous, solid, and air matrices. The substances are grouped together based on their similar structures, functional groups, or properties. The chapters cover a range of pollutants, including pesticides, herbicides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and radioactive isotopes. The analytical methodologies are presented in a clear and concise manner, with detailed procedures and examples provided.

Part III:

Physical Properties and Analytical Methodologies Part III presents analytical methodologies and physical properties for individual chemical pollutants. The chapters provide detailed information on the physical properties, sources, environmental behavior, and health effects of each pollutant. The analytical methodologies section covers techniques such as gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography. The chapters also provide examples of real-world applications of the analytical methods presented.

Overall Evaluation

The Handbook of Environmental Analysis is an excellent resource for students and professionals in the field of environmental analysis. The book’s comprehensive coverage of the subject matter makes it an ideal reference handbook for those working in government agencies and private industry who are involved in environmental monitoring and pollution control. The book is also suitable as a textbook for students in environmental science, chemistry, and engineering programs.

strengths

One of the strengths of the book is its organization. The topics are presented in a logical and easy-to-follow manner, with clear headings and subheadings. The chapters are written in a concise and straightforward style, making it easy for readers to understand the concepts and techniques presented.

Another strength of the book is the practical guidance provided. The book includes detailed procedures for sample preparation and analytical methods, as well as examples of real-world applications of the techniques presented. This makes the book a valuable resource for those involved in environmental analysis who need to apply the techniques in their work.

One limitation of the book is that it is not comprehensive in its coverage of all environmental pollutants. However, this is understandable given the vast range of pollutants that exist. The book provides a good overview of the analytical techniques and methodologies used for the most common pollutants, but readers may need to consult additional resources for information on less common pollutants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Handbook of Environmental Analysis by Pradyot Patnaik is an excellent resource for students and professionals in the field of environmental analysis. The book’s comprehensive coverage of the subject matter, practical guidance, and clear organization make it an ideal reference